Like all the other TLeM staff, I love Christian music! For almost 20 years I have been involved in it from various aspects such as radio, journalism, and most certainly as a fan. It has been great to see the industry thrive and grow and become an important part of the musical spectrum around the world. One thing that has concerned me in the last several years however, is the lack of history in the industry. Of course that can be understood since all efforts have been geared toward new artists and progressive styles in the marketplace to further reach all segments of society with the message Christian music carries. Now, however, there has been a very much-needed and anticipated project completed that should begin to establish the history of the CCM industry.
Word Records has just released a 34-song compilation from one of the most recognized and loved groups in all of Christian music-the Imperials. These songs stretch from Sail On, the first Imperials recording on a Word label (DaySpring) to 1988's final Word project by the group, Free The Fire. During this stretch there can be no argument that the group dominated the industry. With three Grammy Awards, a dozen Dove Awards and countless #1 songs, the Imperials ushered in a new era of Christian music. They performed in places like the Astrodome and Dallas' Reunion Arena, with opening acts such as Sandi Patty and Carman. They were also instrumental in introducing new voices to the CCM scene such as Russ Taff and Paul Smith.
Legacy is wonderfully packaged as a two CD set, complete with a brief historical summary. In the song listings, founding member Armond Morales gives short lines of retrospective thoughts on some of the songs. For instance, he talks about how Michael Omartian came up with "Trumpet Of Jesus," and how he still hears testimony of the power of "Praise The Lord." Word Records also deserves a lot of credit for the presentation of the project. You get the sense that this was not a situation where the label thought they could simply put some songs together and make some money. I get the feeling that the songs were carefully chosen in order to give a real and historical perspective of the great Imperial songs of the past. They also included a small certificate of authenticity that allows the consumer to register the purchase with the label as well as complete a small survey about the Imperials.
The collection includes, of course, songs such as "Sail On," "Praise The Lord," "One More Song For You," and "Stand By The Power." But what really makes it work was the inclusion of cuts like the live versions of "He Touched Me" and "Gospel Ship" from the 1978 Live album. Another real treat from the Live album was hearing the beginning of a tremendous talent in Russ Taff singing "New Creation." Other highlights from the album include "Because He Lives" from Imperials Sing The Classics (1984), and three solos from the 1983's innovative Side By Side. These songs almost give it a feel of "newness," even to long-time fans.
Anyone who has been a fan of Christian music in the last 20 years should recognize these songs. I highly recommend it for everyone who likes to listen to the "old stuff" every now and then. Where else can you get a collection that has songs with such voices as Russ Taff ("Praise The Lord"), Jim Murray ("Sail On"), David Will ("One More Song For You"), Paul Smith ("Stand By The Power"), Ron Hemby & Jimmie Lee Sloas ("Free The Fire," "Power Of God") and founding member Armond Morales ("They See God There")? Where else could you get a collection of music with producers such as Michael Omartian, Brown Bannister, and Chris Christian? Or songs written by such names as Bill Gaither, Keith Thomas, Chris Eaton and Michael W. Smith?
Consider that on this one compilation the albums and singles represented garnered four #1 charted albums, four albums that are listed in the Top 50 Christian albums of all time by Billboard, nine #1 singles, four Dove Awards and two Grammys for Album of The Year. The singers here are responsible for winning five Dove Awards for Group of The Year and in 1982 were the first recipients of the Dove Award for Artist of the Year.
Without a doubt, like the songs it provides, and the group that sings them, Legacy will remain a classic collection for many years to come.
Similar sounding releases
1999Paul BradyNobody Knows: The Best of Paul Brady
2002Keith GreenThe Ultimate Collection
1996Beyond The BlueBeyond The Blue
1997Adrian SnellMy Heart Shall Journey...
1995David MeeceOdyssey
1990Larry NormanConfiscated: The Best of Larry Norman
